The Ups and Downs

2011-10-18T15:55:00.002-05:00

Ok, thinks that have happened the last couple months

-San Diego, always a blast, I may post on that later.

-Started school (work) again and love my staff. Since working at the school district I have come to discover what I am really good at. It's the people skills that I am having to work on.

-Pregnant, having a boy in January. I am excited for this, but trying not to think too much about it.

-John is going to school full time at CAC. He is going to go into computers. We have talked about it for years so it is great to finally have him do it. It is amazing what a job you hate will motivate you to do.

-We are homeschooling Addison for preschool. We couldn't find anything affordable that fit our scheduals so we are taking it into our hands. She loves to do her homework, and I think that its the only time of day when she is quiet. She also loves to draw. Very good at it too.

-I'm still working at Brownies, just taking a break. I am too tired. The plan is for me to come back after the baby is born and help run things. I just hope buisness is better by then.

-Addison is excited to be a big sister and have someone to play with. She keeps talking about when her baby brother comes. She says things like, I wish he could come out now. Also, she knows we are going to Disneyland after he comes, but I don't think she knows what it is.

Life is simple and to an outsider probably boring around here, but we love it.

Gardening

2011-07-25T19:25:00.001-05:00

This summer I have been taking care off my mom's flowers. She has been gone and I don't have a cool setup like she does. Well, in the front I planted some morning glory because I love the flower they give.
If you know anything about cotton you know that this is one of your worst enemys. Our family has a cotton farm that my dad grew up working on. Todd and I both worked on it as well. My job was to chop the morning glory before it got big enough to start vining its self around the cotton plant. If it did, it was a pain to get it off without destroying the cotton. The problem of it lies in this. The vines grow and spread over everything. They then clog the picker and slow org even hault the harvesting of the cotton. To say the least, farmers consider it a weed.
My dad came home earlier this summer for the weekend and saw the morning glory growing happily in his flower pots. I think it took every fiber of his being to not pull it. this last saturday I went over and pulled all dead flowers from the pots because I lives in arizona and everything dies in the summer here. in the front where I had planted the morning glory, it was the only thing left alive. I just had to giggle a little over it all.

I love you dad.

Bowling

2011-06-18T21:45:00.001-05:00

John took addison bowling a couple off weeks ago. Today she miraculously found the bowling set that has been in her room for the last six months and decided she wanted to bowl in the living room. Oh, and she was wearing her swimming suit most off the day. John has a very elegant and unique through. This is addison trying to bowl, just like him.

2011-05-08T20:16:00.001-05:00

This is my baby. I love her so much. Even though she didn't let me take a nap today.

Happy mom's day

2011-05-07T13:41:00.001-05:00

May 1

2011-05-02T06:28:00.001-05:00

First day of may, windows open all night. This is the temp insider my house. In arizona. Does anyone else find that hard to believe?

Happy easter

2011-04-24T14:44:00.001-05:00

Little miss muffet

2011-03-29T21:15:00.001-05:00

Sat on here tuffet, eating here curds and whey. Yeah, so didn't set this up. It was just too cute.

My week alone

2011-03-17T00:31:00.001-05:00

This last week I have been on my own because John decided to got to Kansas with his brother. Did I mention he took Addison too. I have had an entire 6 days to myself, if you don't count the 2 jobs that I work. It has been relaxing, but I'm ready for my family to be home. Is it funny that I miss being woken up by a slap in the face and a 3 year old saying she wants cereal?

Pretty princess

2011-03-01T19:06:00.001-06:00

Isn't this the cutest girl?

New cell phone

2011-02-22T07:03:00.001-06:00

I have a new number and access to the internet. So, I might be better about updating. Maybe.

2010-08-06T19:39:00.000-05:00

Yes we are still alive.

baking

2010-05-03T20:47:00.001-05:00

This is what happens when you are trying to make cookies for a husband who will be here tomorrow, and cleaning up the kitchen. I turned my back for 30 sec. and she wasn't even in the room. She's Good!

Update

2010-04-25T20:08:00.003-05:00

The house is sold, I am now 28 and here are Addison's unofficial 2 1/2 year pictures

County Fair

2010-03-21T21:09:00.003-05:00

We went to the fair this week. I was asked to judge the cakes and baked goods part of the 4-H entries. It was fun, and I had to keep telling myself that these are kids, not pastry chefs.

Addison learned a few new words, chicken, sheep, goat, duck. I love to hear all the new things she has to say. I am also officially mommy, not mama.

I loved the crazy hair when she took off her hat

She carried the bear around for 2 days, I'm not really sure why.

I Have a JOB!!

2010-03-02T18:15:00.002-06:00

1 day shy of 5 months from when I let Kansas, I finally have a job! I'm going to be working with the Glendale Elementary School District as a food service manager(fancy name for lunch lady). I'm so excited because this is my first job as a technical manager. Now the question is where are we going to live when my parents get home?

House Update

2010-02-24T09:39:00.003-06:00

So for those who don't know, we have a contract on our house right now. The inspection was this last Monday, and I'm told it went really well. We still haven't heard what they want fixed though. Also, I unofficially have a job. The Glendale Elementary School district is going to hire me to feed all of their hungry kids. I'll be managing one of the cafeterias, and I'm totally excited for it. So things are coming together, prayers are being answered, all that jazz. I am just looking forward to having John here with us.

Addison went to a party next door and was on this swing 90% of the time. When it came time to serve the cake she decided to ditch the plate and just relax while she ate. She is so fun.

Addison's Swing

2010-02-07T15:51:00.002-06:00

Addison loves to swing. It is one of her favorite things to do at the park (which drives me crazy because we go so she can run and get her energy out, not mine). So, inspired by Trisha and the rope swing they have in their yard, I got into my dad's camping stuff and "stole" one of the millions of ropes he has. a tie here and a knot there and we have a completely free, to me at the moment at least, form of entertainment that keeps her busy for hours. I wrapped a towel around it to make it softer. She loves to just lay on her belly with her feet dangling and swing back and forth. That is great because I have to do zero pushing.

On other new, there isn't much at the moment. We have had 1 offer on the house and I've had a job interview, but nothing in set in stone yet. I'll Let you know when we do.

Meanwhile, back on the farm. . .

I love living at home again. My parent's house is huge and I have no idea how she kept it clean with six kids, oh wait, I forgot, she had 6 kids for child labor. Just kidding. I'm just amazed at how fast one little girl can mess up a room when you are making dinner (or blogging and trying to ignore her for 5 min.) But I mostly love living close to my family again. Not that I didn't love John's family, I really do, they just aren't my family. I love how picking up kids turns into an hour conversation. I love that we can get together for dinner at the last minute. I love a sister and brothers in law that fit in so perfectly with our family. And I love having a sister that is like a mom while mine is away who will listen to me ramble on for an hour even though she has a million other things to do. I have really missed my family, and I didn't realize how much until I moved back here.

Sorry, Today has been a little emotional. I have realized that one of the greatest blessings the Lord has giving me lately is a feeling of peace and knowing I don't need to worry about every little thing. I have put my trust in Him, that He knows what I need the most and when. I will get a job when He wants me to. John will be able to move out here when He wants him to. And until everything in life is perfect (aka we die) I know that I don't have to worry about it, I just need to have faith.

Guilty Pleasures

2010-01-24T10:28:00.002-06:00

One of my Guilty Pleasures is Albertson's french bread. Most of you are probably thinking that that isn't a bad thing. Well the fact that I'm a baker and can make breads that would put Albertson's to shame makes it one for me. It goes back to a time when Rachel, Kim and I would all go to the store, get a movie, bread and something not good for you like hot tamales, ice cream or chips, and that would be our Friday night. But we would always get the bread. I was just at Albertsons on Thursday.

It's about snack time and so Addison wants everything she can think of. Well she just came up to me in the kitchen and asked for bread. So I got out what was left and tore part of it off. she then began to get mad and demand the rest of it so I gave it to her just to see if it would prevent the oncoming tantrum. She grabbed it, took off running and giggling, so happy to have won her piece of bread. She is a girl after my own heart.

Sweet Temptations

2010-01-22T18:37:00.003-06:00

It is still a work in progress, but anyone interested in seeing my website for the bakery can go here. Things are starting to come together.

2010-01-20T19:08:00.000-06:00

Not quite what I had in mind when I think about how I want my kids to be into cooking.

Cake

2010-01-16T18:44:00.003-06:00

This is what I did this morning

...and this is what I get for not paying attention to my daughter.

Best Christmas Ever

2009-12-27T19:53:00.003-06:00

This year for Christmas I was given the best gift ever. My siblings and I rotate names for gift exchange. This makes it so much easier than getting everyone something and I love it, usually. Well it has been a very hard year for John and I and that is one of the reasons we decided to move to AZ. But I didn't count on not being able to find a job in a field that is ALWAYS hiring. Needless to say, we couldn't afford to have John come out here for Christmas. Then Trisha tells me that everyone in the family has decided not to do gifts. This was a huge relief and I was really looking forward to a relaxing day with all of them. It was great. Even with Addison and her tantrums. I was able to bake in the morning, something that always makes me feel wonderful, and spend the afternoon with siblings. What I didn't expect is what walked in the door at 8pm as we were all singing on John's voice mail. John himself. My brothers and sisters had decided it was more important for me to see my husband and bought him a plane ticket. This is the only picture of Christmas I took. Addison would not let go of John for the entire day on Saturday. She just wanted him near her. I can defiantly understand the way she felt.

I am shocked and amazed at the generosity and love my family on both sides have shown me over the last few months. I don't know who did what, but I am grateful for and to all my family. I am also grateful that families are eternal because I don't want to loose a single member. Thank you all for a wonderful weekend.

For Uncle Kris

2009-12-22T09:40:00.002-06:00

I just thought he would be proud of Addison's choice of play the other day. I especially love that she is in a dress. She loves everything a boy would love.

Cat Adventures

2009-12-13T16:06:00.002-06:00

So the other night I woke up and realized that Popo, our cat, was not there with me. He always sleeps with me and I can't brake him of this. That meant the only reason he wasn't there is he got out side and I didn't realize it. So I thought he had spent the night outside, but when I opened the door to let him in, he wasn't there. Now, he is not an outside cat, but he has been getting a little more daring and running out when I'm trying to wrangle Addison. It worried me just a bit that he didn't show up. I figured He was sick of my rationing his food and he ran away, or he froze to death. About noon I finally figured our where he was. I had gone to the basement storage room to get something, had the door open for like 20 seconds and went back upstairs. He had gone in the storage room and was stuck there, out of ear shot for 24 hours. Stupid cat. The good thing is he is really particular and will only go in his litter box so I had no mess to clean up.

2009-12-11T16:42:00.003-06:00

Ok, so not much has been going on lately. I still haven't found a job, but am trying to do some baking on the side. If there is anyone you know who needs a wedding cake or some gift baskets, I'd be happy to help. In AZ, not KS. That would be an expensive delivery charge. I really just have some pictures to share.

Addison is always sticking her tongue out when she is doing something

Just being cute

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T12:57:00.002-06:00

This year for Thanksgiving Addison and I went with my sister Trisha to her in-laws house. I just have to tell you how much I love the Riggs'. Their house was built on the family farm, along with others in the family, and still has much of the rural atmosphere on the edge of suburban Chandler (Phoenix area). They have citrus trees, flowers and cows. Oh how Addison loved the cows. With so many relatives so close to them, all the Riggs parties kind of get mixed in with each other. I really love that laid back, come and go, one big family kind of life style (as long as everyone behaves themselves).
John was very well taken care of by a few people in our Manhattan ward (Thank you). I think he had at least 2 dinners, and stopped by 2 other homes. He also was able to hang out with his parents.
For black Friday, which I hate the concept of, but was not willing to pass up on this year, I got a web cam. So Marry Christmas to the Grandparents, this is your gift this year.

Lemon Tasting

2009-11-22T20:29:00.001-06:00

She didn't like it

Birthday Card

2009-11-14T09:37:00.002-06:00

Grandma and Grandpa T sent Addison a birthday card the other day. When I showed it to her she loved it. She kept taking it with her around the house. We even took it into Albertson's. I just love the cheesy smile.

Her she is trying to get the camera from me.

Halloween

2009-11-02T12:09:00.004-06:00

Here are some pictures from Halloween. I went through mom's old costumes and found this. I am pretty sure I wore it as a child, but it was that or a cheerleader.

They were eating yogurt and I thought it was too cute.

I was trying to make cookies, but Addison just wanted to play in the water. She ended up taking a bath in the sink.

Colder Days

2009-10-29T22:11:00.002-05:00

For one more day at least. I am really afraid of having a super high electric bill while living here and have only turned on the AC once for a few hours when I just couldn't take it any more. The thermostat has read above 80 for the past few weeks, but I have survived. To day I woke up and it was down to 70. I was so over joyed.
It's funny though, the Midwest has defiantly changed me. I have become more comfortable with the cold and today I had proof. I am still wearing t-shirts when everyone else is in sweaters and jackets. I heard on the radio about someone turning on their heat. I saw a lady running in a jogging suit. I mean come on, it got up to 62 today. It was beautiful.
It is supposed to be back in the 80's by Saturday. But that's fine, at least I don't have to worry about getting my winter clothes that I left in Kansas here any time soon.

Lemon Tree

2009-10-23T18:43:00.001-05:00

Today I decided to trim my parents Lemon tree so that I could walk to the garden without having to duck or get attacked by branches. I had forgotten how good the fresh wood of a citris tree smells. I think Iam going to add it to by list of favorites. Anyway, there are a ton of little green lemons on it right now and my mouth is just watering for a month or 2 when they will be ready.

Whenever I eat a lemon I think of Rachel and the huge tree that is in her parent's front yard. We used to pick them and then eat them with salt. It was always a great snack. I still eat them that way. So now I'm getting my salt shacker ready. Any takers?

Trip Pictures

2009-10-16T11:41:00.003-05:00

Ok, so my computer is magically working right at the moment and I thought I would take the opportunity to put up some pictures. We had a very easy, relatively speaking, trip. It was me, Addison and the cat who hates being in the car. There were a few melt downs around hours 8 and 12 in the car each day, but we all survived. Addison thought it was so much fun to have the cat in the car. He hid for most of it. My favorite part of the trip, besides being done with it, was not having to pull over to change a dirty diaper or get out the litter box. Just about every square inch was packed with stuff.

Cade and Addison have been getting along pretty well. they just both like to get their way. But one thing they have in common is the love of going pantsless. Cade tends to take off his underwear though, and the past few days Addison has started taking off her diaper. Just one of the many things he is bound to teach her.

Here is a potty picture. She has shown a lot of interest in it lately, but I wasn't ready to start until we got here.

Things I Am Thankful For

2009-10-05T18:53:00.003-05:00

This weekend we bad the super long trip to AZ. It went really well. Here are a few of the things I was greatful for.

Sunglasses

No messy diapers

DVD player

Naps

Book on CD

Friends who think more of me than I do myself

Family to welcomes me with open arms and cinnamon rolls

First Driving lesson

2009-09-26T16:58:00.002-05:00

Today Addison and I were taking a walk down our street and then we see John's car coming. Addison got all kinds of excited, she hadn't seen him yet today. Then she climbed into the car, on his lap and they took off. It was so cute, but the real lessons can wait a few more years.

2009-09-25T13:14:00.003-05:00

I think Addison is officially over the binki, now we just need her to fall asleep on her own. We changed the crib into a toddler bed and she loves it. I sometimes find her just lying on it in the middle of the day. I hope she enjoys it, because in a wee she will be in a real bed.

I can't believe I'm moving next Saturday. I am starting to have mixed emotions about it have have to remind myself why we are doing it. It is also going to be hard to be away from John for so long. We have done it before, but never with kids. We are just praying the house sells really fast and he can get out to AZ with us.

A few things I am going to Miss

2009-09-23T19:33:00.004-05:00

As I get ready to leave more and more thing come up that I realize I am going to miss.

~Fall. I won't be able to see it this year. I'm leaving a month too early.

~I love how even the weeds are pretty

~Walking down my street and seeing all the green

~Having an on call babysitter every Friday night

~Friends, of course, but more than any is Cammon. I have seen her almost every day for like a year and really hope they end up at ASU. She makes me want to cry like every day when she picks up Kelsie and says how much she is going to miss me.

~Seeing this kind of stuff in my yard at random time in the year

A little bit of Peace

2009-09-23T19:19:00.003-05:00

Got this at a garage sale for Addison, Popo thinks its his

The best of friends share everything, even a cardboard box

A big tub of oatmeal, a couple of bowls and measuring cups = hours of entertainment

Day 2 and 3

2009-09-17T10:43:00.002-05:00

No naps, Tylenol and lots of active play. That has been the last 2 days. Addison is actually taking it very well. She struggles for a little bit when we go to put her to bed, but I think she realizes that she would rather have me hold her then cry herself to sleep. During the day she really doesn't notice.

On moving, we are going to Casa Grande. Addison and I are leaving on Oct. 4th. John is going to stay until the house is sold and then come on out. Its going to be weird, but hopefully he will be able to get a lot more done on the house.

Bye Bye Binky

2009-09-15T10:27:00.002-05:00

So yesterday we through away the binky. I decided to do this before the move (by the way, we are moving to AZ) and I don't have any kids to watch this week. I through them away one by one while Addison was watching, and crying for them, and said bye to each. I kept her super busy yesterday and she had no nap. By 7pm she was super tired, but we struggled until 10pm to get her to sleep. She has just been so attached to that thing. This morning she woke up at 6:45. So another day begins. I'll keep you posted.

Pictures

2009-09-08T16:51:00.002-05:00

Trying to get cookie dough

First cookie paddle
reading with Kelsie

eating, again

Christmas in July

2009-07-15T12:17:00.004-05:00

I just got !my huge Little Tikes order that I have been looking forward to for 4 months. Now I have to go set it all up

Here are some other fun things I have been getting the past couple of weeks

Addison did this to herself.

Addison Enjoys. . .

2009-07-08T20:18:00.002-05:00

Many things really, but here are a few that I have caught on camera.

Coloring with her markers. She does this left handed because when she pulls the cap off the marker is in her left hand.

Wearing dad's shoes, why ?

Getting into my draws and pulling out all of my hose.

Every day is an adventure

Fouth of July

2009-07-08T19:54:00.003-05:00

This year we had an extra long weekend. We started celebrating on Friday at a ward member's home. They know how to through the best parties. It really reminds me of like a Riggs/Tomkinson Party. It was Big, Loud, Had lots of food and Great fireworks!! Sorry, no pictures from that, but we had a great time and Addison enjoyed the fireworks this year.

The next day we took a couple of young men to the drag races in Topeka. They were only semi-pro, but a ton of fun to watch. John got all excited when we saw the junior division. He started talking about how Addison is going to do that someday.

Junior division

The leaders

We then went over to John's parent's and did some of our own fireworks. Of course this is mostly for the boys.

Overall it was a fun weekend, but I'm glad to have Addison back on her regular sleep schedule.

For Amy

2009-06-21T20:30:00.002-05:00

The other day I turned on some music while watching the kids and it turned into a fun little dance session. Yesterday while at Home Depot looking for paint, a Madonna song came on. Addison started dancing, making several people laugh. I thought of you both times Amy.

Finally

2009-06-20T20:57:00.005-05:00

Ok, so we finally got a new card reader and here are some long over due pictures for everyone.

Best Friends

Totally reminds me of Amy pictures
Before Haircut Before

After Haircut

(it wasn't that much, just out of the face)
Mummy Kelsie

Easter egg hunting inside the house due to rain

The three girls

Feeding the baby

Downward Dog Addison

Our massive yard

The Fence

Haircut

2009-05-23T11:21:00.002-05:00

You want to do something really fun? Cut a very active 18 month old's hair. I have never cut hair before, but Addison's was just getting too long. I have had many in my life and have learned a few things from watching Sara. I was also inspired by a friend who has a daughter about the same age. So I tried. 2 Popsicles later I completed the task. She just would not sit still, not that I was expecting much better. John was a little nervouse when I told him what I did. It looks ok though, so I will keep doing it until she demands a professional, or we move closer to Sara and I can bribe her with cheesecake.

Sick Again

2009-04-30T21:41:00.004-05:00

This time with an almost ear infection. Well he said it was red and irritated and gave us amoxicilline (and yes, I had to look on the bottle to make sure I spelt it right). Smelling that stuff brought back a whole sloo of memories. I totally remember taking it as a kid.

And as far as pictures, I can't down load them right now. Electronic devices hate me. That is why I keep my phone as just a phone, not a camera/pda/mp3 player, and oh, I guess we should through the phone in too.

Field Trip

2009-04-11T12:25:00.002-05:00

Addison and I went to AIB to visit with my former co-workers. It was good to see everyone and catch up a little. Here is a picture that Renee took.

update

2009-03-30T13:36:00.003-05:00

OK, so I haven't posted in a while. That is because I have been kind of down and I think that nothing is interesting enough to write about. Here is what has happened over the last month:

John finished the fence, or at least the part we need for the daycare. It was way more of a production than either of us thought it would be.

Addison has 3 new teeth just breaking through. Quite the fun experience I hope you all get to have someday.

I found out I'm not allowed to have coloring books in the daycare. It hinders a child's creative expressions.

Addison can now put sock on, it is so much fun when we are in the car and she tears her shoes off so she can practise.

Like I said before, we are kind of boring. I'll post some pictures soon.

Update

2009-03-07T12:04:00.002-06:00

Addison has been sick for the past couple of weeks, she just can't get over her cough. This is her at the worst of it. She just felt terrible

The verdict is in, I think we have a righty. Sorry John!

Here she is getting into a bag of chips, can you guess which kind?

2009-03-02T20:56:00.003-06:00

Addison had her first friend's birthday party a couple of weeks ago. It was really fun to watch her interacting. It's amazing how far a couple of balloons and some cake will go with kids this age.

FHE

2009-02-16T20:41:00.002-06:00

For family home evening tonight we discovered a great new game. It is called "Through the freshly cleaned sock at Addison and watch her giggle like mad." I was folding laundry and John brought Addison in. I gave him the super hard task of folding the socks and keeping her away from the already folded clothes. Then he just started chucking the socks at her, and she loved it. Hey, it kept her entertained for 10 min. and after a weekend of being sick, anything to keep her occupied helps.

Pictures

2009-02-11T21:53:00.002-06:00

I have been bad about posting lately, but hey, I almost have my taxes done!

Trying to dress herself, does this a lot

Beautiful eyes

Helping Kelsie walk

The Cape of Many Colors

2009-02-04T21:50:00.004-06:00

Addison had a really hard day a couple of days ago. She didn't get enough sleep and was therefore grumpy.
She fell down, I guess because of lack of will to stand like a normal person, and that of course made her cry.
This would usually be not a big deal, except that Carmen, my 4 month old, was also really fussy, and seeing as she is younger, kind of takes precedence.
So to solve the problem we wrapped her up in a blanket.
But not just any blanket, this was a rainbow blanket that became her super cape and her new favorite toy of the minute.

Snacks help too.

(Carmen)

In honor of. . .

2009-01-28T19:58:00.002-06:00

John's BIRTHDAY. Yes, technically 31, but physical hardship to his body makes him 65. He is, and has always been, very abusive to it. The funny thing is, he is in the young men's program. He will come home after playing basketball with them and cry about how much it hurt and how good he used to be at sports. He has a a few good excuses, namely surviving radiation treatment and a really messed up back. I just think it's funny.

The reason I am posting is because I wanted to share this oh so cut daddy-daughter moment they had on Monday night. Addison has not been taking very good naps this past week. She is sometimes woken up by the smallest peep out of another child. When she wakes up, she dose not go back to sleep. This equals an even longer day for mom because the wining begins about the same time as all the kids go home. Monday, while I finished dinner, John came to the rescue and danced/sang with her until she was practically asleep. It was just too cute. She loves when he sings to her.

Tree Removal

2009-01-17T22:03:00.003-06:00

In order for me to meet standards for my day care licence we have to build a fence. To do that, my semi-perfectionist husband wanted to remove the trees in the front yard. This is great, these are the same trees that nearly crushed our house last year during the ice storm. They are worthless for shade, make it so no grass can grow near them, and pollute the yard with a billion leaves in the fall. I am not sad to see them go, it was just one more thing to do. But He-man himself and a couple of friends (one who is apparently part monkey) got the job done today. It was quite entertaining to watch. Thankfully no one and nothing got hurt.

She was just as interested as I was.

For Grandma T

2009-01-17T21:56:00.002-06:00

Thinking of you.

Addison Pictures

2009-01-14T16:16:00.003-06:00

This has been Addison's favorite toy for the past few days. If I new it was that easy, I would have spent a lot less on Christmas!
After nap

Reading to herself

Giving the cat loves

Talking on the phone I guess

Oreo Adventures

2009-01-06T17:42:00.005-06:00

Addison had her first Oreo the other day. I have officially given up trying to keep her away from sweets. Between me, John and Grandpa T, she has no chance. Here is my little sweet tooth in action.

Christmas

2008-12-29T19:26:00.004-06:00

We had fun for Christmas. John's parents came over and had breakfast with us, and then watched Addison open her presents. Just an update on the snow thing, yeah, it was white for Christmas day, but the next it reached like 70 and all the snow melted and everything was slushy. It snowed again the next day!

I love her eyes in this shot

Having a tantrum before church

Just a crazy shot.

Jingle Bells

2008-12-17T15:02:00.002-06:00

She's a natural Tomkinson! Now I just need to find the music!

It Snowed

2008-12-17T14:13:00.002-06:00

I have mixed feelings about the whole snow thing.

1. I HATE to clean my car off in the winter time.
2. It is really stinking cold right now.
3. I have not left the house for 3 days and am running low on milk and other perishables.
4. I am afraid of a repeat of last years ice storm.
5. Kansas weather is crazy, just last Saturday it was in the 60's
6. I have yet to have a White Christmas.
7. It's fun to play in, for about 30 sec. Then your hands freeze even with gloves on and the melted stuff gets in your shoes.
8. It's really pretty, until it gets dirty from all the traffic.
9. I do like to drink hot chocolate and watch a fire burn. We don't have a fireplace though, and who really needs the extra calories.

Ok, maybe I'm just really negative about it. I grew up in Arizona! I never had it snow for Christmas, and you could even go golf if that is your thing. I just really miss the heat. Morgan, If you read this, I will gladly trade you. Gas is just too expensive to heat your house to a non chilly point. I took Addison outside yesterday on our porch and after a min she started to freak out because her hand was freezing. Sorry John, I think we are going to have to veto the whole living in Kansas thing. I am so moving back to AZ someday!

Thanksgiving in Arizona

2008-12-10T20:01:00.002-06:00

Ok, so it's been a couple of weeks, get over it. Here are some of the pictures from Thanksgiving at the Riggs. We went there because we love them, and my parents are in Honduras. I figured that would have been way to long of a drive for Addison to live through.

Decorating the tree for FHE
I love the way John bowls, he is so graceful.

Driving the mini van. He loved every minute of it. Our Expedition was in the shop because of the accident still so the dealership was so kind and gave us this to replace it.

Keeping her entertained for 20 hours is harder then you would think

John has been wanting to take the girls bowling ever since they beat him on the Wii

She loves to be out side

This was her favorite toy while we were there. I just love the John smirk!

Trisha, I mean Kristen teaching piano. Yeah, thanks, now she knows how to lift up ours!

John also helped Rusty tile their office. It was great because now he can do our house. We also say Shane and Sam for a little bit and Ed and Rachel's fam. Overall it was a lot of fun and I hope that we can do it again some time.

My Toddler

2008-11-19T21:20:00.004-06:00

So, this is my little toddler. She is now by definition one, though she still acts like a big baby sometimes. Oh, and we have been working on the word baby. I watch a 2 month old for about 16 hours a week and so I have been teaching Addison that we have to be gentle with the baby. The other day I found her practising her b sounds so I just kept saying baby over and over again. she is starting to put sounds together and recognize things. Whenever I say "where's Dada" she looks at the front door expecting him to walk in. It is so cute. She is now climbing. I have mixed emotions about this.

Middle of November and my grass is still GREEN

Birthday Girl

2008-11-19T21:07:00.007-06:00

Addison is now one year old. Only 17 more to go! Ok, not really but some days I feel that way. She is all over the house, yard and other kids. She only stops to eat(and that is minimal), observe other kids, and when she is forced to crash for a while (sleep). We had lots of fun watching her demolish the traditional 1st birthday cake with a few friends and family. She was more into making a mess then eating. I also got to talk to my mom and dad all the way in Honduras, it was just so exciting to here their voices. I know I don't write them enough and I'm sorry, but I still love you. I just can't get over how much I love this little girl. It has been so much fun having her in our family, and I know she is very loved by all. So Happy Birthday Addison! We love you!

Sleeping in until 10!

Addison's best friends

Arizona

2008-11-17T19:48:00.003-06:00

We are going to Arizona for Thanksgiving. That means that anyone who is going to be there and wants to see us needs to let me know. But if you don't want to see us, that's ok, I really don't like you that much anyway!

New Shoes

2008-11-13T14:13:00.004-06:00

Addison now wants to walk all the time, isn't very good at it yet but wants to all the same. She won't keep her socks on if she is contained for more than a min. so I decided that even though she really isn't ready for shoe she needs them in order to be able to walk around outside our home. Here are some pictures of the cute little thing doing what she does best.

Just really cute, she couldn't stop giggling

Today

2008-11-03T17:17:00.003-06:00

Yeah, so Addison is now walking. Not all the time but she is definitely mastering her fears and self confidence issues. That is a lot for an 11 month old to handle. Also, one other thing I forgot to mention about Halloween. We got in an accident. We are perfectly fine and the car is only a little hurt, it is just a major inconvenience. So I guess more news to come on each o these things as they unfold, though the whole walking thing will probably not produce much in the way of news so much as just more of the same exciting thing. I guess I will have to start putting her in shoes when we go out.

Halloween

2008-11-02T20:56:00.003-06:00

Happy Halloween everyone. I hope you all had a great time, we did. Our festivities started on Wed. night at the ward party. Then on Friday night we went out with Grandma Downs (dad had to work). I think I have the cutest little chick ever, but the pictures speak for themselves.

Farmer John and his Chick
All the cute little animals

So this one is driving from the mall. Addison had stole a piece of the candy from he bucket and fussed whenever I tried to take it away. So I just let her have it. It was mini M&Ms and by the time she fell asleep with them in her mouth they were completely melted. I gave those to John.

Walking Girl

2008-10-28T20:03:00.002-05:00

Ok so not quite, but she is really close and even took a few steps the other day without help. The blog worthy part of it is this. We were at play group at the church and my friend who used to watch her was there and playing with her. side note, I don't know why but Alisha's little girl can always make Addison laugh. It is the coolest thing. Anyway, she asked if Addison was walking yet and I said not on her own. She happened to be holding her up and right then she looked at me and just started coming toward me. She took like 4 steps before going down. I swear she did it out of spite. She's so her dad!!

2008-10-27T14:09:00.003-05:00

I had bought a cute headband for Addison to wear for Halloween, but she can't stand anything on her head. It's really me fault, I never put those silly little baby ones on her head when she was younger. I just don't like them that much, and she always had plenty of hair. But it did keep her busy for about a minute!

Thanks Janie

2008-10-27T14:04:00.004-05:00

Our friend Janie is the cutest Aunt to her nieces, and decided to send Addison a Halloween card along with a dollar bill. She really liked it.

2008-10-27T13:39:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures to catch you up. I have been kind of busy, but mostly just can't find 30 min. to come downstairs and download them.

The first 2 are of Addison doing what she love best, emptying a box full of something. She does it several times a day to her books, toys and my boxes of stuff all around the house. It is quite fun to watch though. She will take out each item individually and look at is for a second before throwing as far as she can chuck it behind her. John hopes that's a sign of good motor skill for sports, though I can't recall any that require you to though something behind you.

This is just crazy hair Addison. I comb her hair like this after baths so it doesn't mat down and develop gross stuff. John thinks it's weird.

What's Going On

2008-10-20T09:23:00.004-05:00

Ok, so it's been a while, but I really don't have much to tell. I did a Visiting Teaching conference last week that consumed all my extra time. Addison is walking with the help of just one finger, but no step on her own yet. I keep trying to convince her she can do it, she is physically capable, but just lacks the confidence. What are you going to do with that 11 month old who lacks confidence. John had a week off from house work, he had too much other stuff to catch up on. My yard is almost cleared of shingles. It has taken hours and many dumps to get rid of them. I just want to be able to mow my lawn again. It is getting colder. We have already turned on the heater at night because John is paranoid that Addison will get too cold. I think that he has forgotten that she emits about 1000 btus. My point was, fall is here. The leaves are changing, the grass is dying, and it is usually beautiful weather for walks. We have been taking a walk almost everyday. This is for both me and Addison. Addison because she loves to be out side, but tends to eat the grass. Me because by 4pm I need a break from the baby talk/whining. I have found that it takes a half an hour to get her to fall asleep. Sorry, we really are quite boring.

FYI: I am working on some bread recipes to post.

Big Girl PJs

2008-10-04T18:59:00.004-05:00

OK, so my sister Trisha Has 3 girls and because she doesn't plan on having any more she gave me all of her clothes up to 3 years. Yes, I have 3 years worth of clothes for Addison stashed in my basement in size coordinated boxes (Kim, you'd be proud). Its kind of like our year supply, but just clothes instead. Anyway, because of this I have had to buy very few, as in like 4 actual outfits, clothes for the little one. (This has been a huge help and I really appreciate all of it and can't wait to pass it on to the next girl in the family, hint hint Amy) It is mostly just supplemental items that bring some of the pieces together. Addison just keeps on growing though, the darn girl, and already needs some 12 month clothes for length. I brought up the 12 month box specifically to find pjs for her. There was one pair. One. In the 0-3 month I could change her pjs every day and not have to wash for 2 weeks. Now I have one. People, when bestowing the much beloved and cute little baby shower gifts on mothers to be, PLEASE think ahead. They grow out of the little stuff way too fast and you just end up with a very large, slightly used pile of 0-6 month clothes. OK, rant over, back to my original point of the post. I had to go and buy a couple of pjs for Addison, which is a whole different therapy session because I am way cheap and don't see why stores feel they have the right to charge $25 or more for an outfit that is made with a 1/3 of the material of an adult sized version. Anyway, Addison looks way cute and way grown up. She no longer looks like a baby, but instead a little girl. The End.

This is Her showing us her driving skills, she pushes it all around the floor.

Front Porch

2008-10-03T13:52:00.005-05:00

My home is a construction site! We have been doing so much work to the house it is ridiculous. John has been busy doing something every night for the past 2 weeks. We have some guys John works with working on the roof, and in order to do that we needed to fix the front porch. Fixing turned into completely redoing because John has befriended a contractor who was sick of doing just paper work and knows nothing about cars. That, by the way, is my wood anniversary present. Then, while they were taking the shingles off some fell and hit our outside water spout. We had a lake quickly forming in our back yard and didn't know where the shut off valve was. A plumber friend come over and helped with that. Thankfully John has lots of friend in different fields of work. I am very grateful for that (I have very few friends).

And all this is going on while I am trying to get licenced for daycare. I'm just grateful that they haven't call to come and inspect yet because there are so many hazards in the yard alone. I am watching a friend's little girl for about 3 hours a day. She is 7 months old and so different from Addison. It's fun though. I really haven't gotten much of the million things I want to do done, it still just feels like a long weekend.

Happier note, Addison stood for about 15 second unsupported today.

Pictures

2008-09-30T21:10:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures a friend took of Addison while babysitting. She apparently thought she was a dog that day. I love her bright eyes!

Cereal Bowl

2008-09-25T09:26:00.005-05:00

John doesn't always give himself enough time to eat breakfast in the morning, but when he dose it is usually cereal. He proceeds to pour himself a bowl that is already twice the size of a normal person's. Then if he still has time to spare, he will have a second human head sized bowl. He claims he dose this because he is hungry by lunch time. I'm fine with how much he eats, it's just expensive to eat that much. I try to encourage oatmeal or something else that is more satisfying, especially when oatmeal is way cheaper, but he just won't have that. It is too much work and he doesn't have time. I then kindly remind him that if he would get up when I woke him up he would have time. He doesn't like it when I do that. So anyway, for our anniversary I got him a new cereal bowl so he would only have to make one trip to the kitchen each morning.

Yes it was meant as a joke, but he has contemplated using it for that. It has now been officially deemed our popcorn bowl, it's a perfect size for that. Dad, when you come and visit again, you can use it for your ice cream, it might be big enough.

John got me wood for our anniversary. More to come on that.

5 Years

2008-09-22T09:33:00.003-05:00

It was our five year anniversary this past Saturday. After John went and mowed someone else's yard, we spent the day vegging out. It was mostly movie watching and naps. John was sick and Addison is teething. I sware that girl can bite. We also had take out from Old Chicago, which is never as good as when you eat at the restaurant because everything just gets soggy. But here is an overview of the past 5 years:

We got married on September 20, 2003 in Casa Grande, AZ. We were sealed on July 13, 2005 in the San Diego Temple.

We have lived in 2 states, 2 cities and 3 different homes/apartment

John has had 3 jobs, I have had 5.

We have owned 6 different cars, 3 lawn mowers, and about 2 million DVDs

For travel destinations we have been to San Diego (of course), Newport Beach, CA (thanks mom and dad) and Chicago (thanks AIB) We still want to go every where else.

We have also had our first child. She is the best of both of us.

I have to say 5 years is a long time. Neither of us have loved every minute of it, but it has definitely been an interesting ride. We love all of our family and thank them all for the wonderful memories they have shared with us.

Holy Yeast

2008-09-16T14:39:00.003-05:00

Yeah, so we got this in today to run some tests on. It is a picture of a regular sized container of yeast and one that is about 20lbs. We only need 1/3 of an ounce. Why someone would need that much instant yeast, I have no idea. (just to clarify, the baking industry usually uses some form of fresh yeast to do anything in significant quantities)

It's Official

2008-09-10T12:51:00.002-05:00

I turned in my notice at work yesterday. Daycare ready or not, my last day of work at AIB is September 30th. I just feel stale here, and have for a while. I have learned what I came to learn here and that is bread. I feel like what was once my weakest point is now my strongest. I also hate watching my little girl grow through the stories of others. I have a friend who said it is so much easier on moms who work. I couldn't disagree more. I still have to do all the mom things when I get home, trying to shove them into the the 3 hours a day I get to spend with Addison. I also have a laundry list of house stuff, service stuff and calling stuff to do. It is harder. So I'm nervous and excited all at the same time.

I'm not writing this so people can congratulate me on my decision to be a "good mom." It has never been an issue of I wanted to work, trust me I want to be at home, it has been a money issue. I just wanted to let everyone know about it.

Manic

2008-09-07T10:22:00.004-05:00

I just finished reading this book. It was great. It has taught me so much about myself. Before I kind of knew some warning signs of when I am getting down, but I never really thought about the ups. I am in no way blaming my behavior on my disease, I guess now I can simply understand it better. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"How could I ever hope to tell a normal person about the terrors of being happy?"

I have always hated the way I act when I'm "in a really good mood" and have never understood way I sometime just blurt thing out that I regret later.

"When you're headed towards mania, the slightest sensation hot wires your nerves."

This is when I get in the most trouble. Some of my past mistakes happened because of this. It is also a time of extreme irritability, and when I usually get into fights with people.

"The cruelest curse of the disease is also its most sacred promise: you will not feel this way forever."

Amen

I definitely recommend it to anyone who is bipolar or living with such a person. It just might help you too.

Our Furry Little Entertainer

2008-08-28T13:48:00.003-05:00

This is how we are entertained at night.

Bed Time

2008-08-28T13:23:00.007-05:00

Our swaddling days are over. Addison used to love to be all wrapped up and warm when she was put down to sleep. It was so easy too, all I had to do was swaddle her really tight (she is very strong) and wait until her eyes got a little droopy. She has gone to bed on her own for a while now and loves to doze off to the sounds of her mobile. Well lately she has started moving around a lot and I have found her with her head jammed into the corner of her crib and yelling because she won't roll over to her stomach (she can, just won't, we are working on that). When I find her like this she has usually kicked all the covers off of her. Last week I started doing a half swaddle mostly because she just brakes out of it in like 5 seconds anyway and that worked for a little bit. For 2 nights now all I have done is tucked her in with her arms out. It seems to be working great, it is just weird.

Last night was cute and Addison must have been really tired. She was pretty much ready for bed by 7 and was starting to rub her eyes. I got her bottle and took her to her room to start our bedtime routing. Well, she barely made it through the bottle. I laid her in bed gave her her pacifier. She had just enough energy to kind of roll to her side and look up at me as I covered her with a blanket before she was out. Man I wish every night was this easy.

I have loved to watch her grow and develop, but it is just so hard to see my little baby becoming an independent spirit. She is such an interesting mixture of both of us.

9 Months

2008-08-22T10:10:00.002-05:00

Wow time flies, here are Addison's states from her 9 month check-up.

Ht: 28 in

Wt: 19# 13.5oz

Head: 46 cm (huge)

Clapping

2008-08-12T13:06:00.004-05:00

Addison started clapping yesterday. It was so fun, she did it just by accident then when she say it was a good thing she kept on doing it. It made feeding her a little more difficult though. She kept laughing and wanting to play. She is also pulling herself up to stand and has another tooth coming in. Man they grow fast.

Funny

2008-08-08T16:00:00.001-05:00

This just made me laugh.

"Is fuel efficiency really what we need most desperately? I say that what we really need is a car that can be shot when it breaks down. "
Russell Baker

2008-08-08T09:13:00.002-05:00

My little girl is getting so big! I had one of those moments last night. She was playing with a toy that plays a song when you push the button and kept on pushing it over and over again. As annoying as this was (the song would start from the beginning each time so every 3 seconds I would hear the some notes. I wanted to take it away long enough to hear the entire 30 second song) it was amazing to watch her figure out that when you do this, this happens. She was amazed. Ahh, the simple pleasures of life.

San Diego

2008-07-23T14:33:00.007-05:00

It's been a while so there is a lot to share. It has taken so long to get pictures up because when I was messing with them on my computer I some how erased them. Thankfully there is a guy I work with who is a bit computer/photography savvy and had a program that helped me get them back. First off, San Diego. We go every year, or at least try to make it, with my dad's family. So much fun, I love the beach. We had all of my siblings there this year. It was a little strange without mom and dad, but there was so much space. (the room is usually cluttered with everything from boogie boards to roller blades) There are tons of pictures so beware. Here is everything from Addison's point of view.

We are finally here!

Being Introduced to the ocean, soon I too can be a little suffer girl

Now the Sand

I had to have a snack

And then I was tired

But not for long!

Emily and I played a lot

The last night we went and watched the sun set

Can we do it all again next year?

Yeah, we all had a lot of fun. Next year maybe we can do the Zoo or something. I just love it because it is time to just relax and hang out on the beach and do nothing. Here are some pictures of the whole family:

These are all the grand and great-grand kids of Grandma Nan

This is the slide that has become a yearly tradition, it also draws a large crowd.

We also had a good fourth of July over at John's parents house. We had a barbecue and set off fire works. John is just a big kid who's toy just get more expensive.

Almost there

2008-06-30T14:23:00.002-05:00

Addison is on the verge of crawling. Just a few more days and she'll have it figured out. We find the cat, who she is very entertained by, is a great motivational tool. She gets excited by him just walking by. On another note, my daughter is the biggest flirt ever born. She will smile at just about anyone, but if you are a guy watch out. She will start the eye batting and cooing and whatever else she can do to make your heart break. So not my child!

Another One

2008-06-27T09:31:00.002-05:00

Addison already has another tooth, it broke through yesterday. What an overachiever, if you do something once you may as well do it twice.

Article

2008-06-23T16:07:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to give myself props. We have worked with NYC in helping find and test reliable/ equivocal trans-fat free shortening for baked products. Today I was emailed this article about the upcoming deadline on the switch and we were mentioned in it. Most of the work we do is confidential for larger companies and it is just kind of cool to see something I worked on personally recognized like that.

Sweet Tooth

2008-06-16T11:45:00.003-05:00

Addison has a tooth breaking through. I could finally feel it yesterday at church and when she fell asleep after walking the gym for 10 min, I could see it. It is this little tiny poky thing in her gum. I'll get pictures when she will sit still for 5 seconds, or I decide to drug her.

As for the tornado, it did hit my work, but did very little damage to it. Mostly business offices, we were even baking that next morning. Life goes on I guess. I know about 3 families who were effected, but thankfully there were no fatalities in Manhattan.

Also, happy Father's Day to all the dads out there that I know. Keep up the good work, we love you.

My Parents

2008-06-12T16:51:00.004-05:00

Cool article about my mom and dad. It was the front page story in the Casa Grande Dispatch today and I'm just so proud. It is also great PR for the church for that area.

Who'ld Have Thought

2008-06-12T10:35:00.006-05:00

Tornados in Kansas, unheard of. Here are some pictures of the destuction that happened in Manhattan, not 4 miles away.

Now thank God for your blessings and have a good day.

Swimming

2008-06-04T10:57:00.002-05:00

Addison and I went swimming yesterday. She has already been to the pool twice, but has yet to actually go in, her babysitter was saving the honor for me. It was a ton of fun, for me at least. She did very well until some other kid splashed a little too hard in her direction. She then started crying and I couldn't help but laugh, I'm a terrible mother. She got used to it after a while and was enjoying it. It really wore her out though, she fell asleep in the car on the way home and didn't wake up again until this morning. (It was an hour after her usual bedtime and she didn't eat very much before we left so this is and isn't surprising.) Here are some fun shots of before and during, sorry no after.

Sitting

2008-05-30T13:15:00.004-05:00

Addison is offically sitting up. Just last Friday she surprised me by sitting on the floor without my help and then kept it up for like 20 min. Now she goes what feels like forever. I still feel like I have to be close though, we have had a few spills (hard wood floors and soft head, you get the picture). She enjoy her toys a lot more, but mostly just sits and looks at the world from a new perspective. She is just getting too big. Next I'll have to completlly redecorate my upstair to prevent broken item.

6 Month Check up

2008-05-21T10:11:00.006-05:00

Addison is now 6 Months old. I can't believe it! It went by so fast. Here are her measurements:

Height: 25.75, 50%

Weight: 16# 14.5oz, 51%

Head: 44.5 cm, 95%

They just grow up so fast. Funny thing, when she had her shots she of course cried and was all kinds of mad. I tried to calm her down and when we left the office she was doing the whole gulping for breath thing that they do after they cry. We got to the next doctors office and had to wait a little bit. We were sitting in the waiting room and just having fun and she was giggling like crazy. She obviously gets over things very quickly. Even if her head is her dad's (huge) that just goes to show the Tomkinson bipolar side of her.

Our Yard

2008-05-19T16:10:00.011-05:00

Well for those who don't remember, this last winter there was a huge ice storm and our yard was littered with fallen tree branches. We have been so busy for the past few months that clearing said branches was put on the back burner. Well we, meaning John with minimal help from me because of having a baby at my side, have finally cleared these away. I swear it took at least 20 trips to the burn pit in a F-150 to get rid of them all. Now we can finally mow the yard. Which brings us to our next issue, the lawn mower. We bought a riding one at an auction 2 years ago and it has been nothing but trouble since. We finally gave in and got a new one last weekend. Now John actually wants to mow. Lesson learned: if you want your husband (aka large child) to do a household chore, buy him a new toy!

Before and After: